When it comes to training for sports, especially at the highest level, there is an emphasis on strength and conditioning as well as explosive, functional exercises. Which begs the question, does endurance training even have a place in elite sports? Of course, it does! As a matter of fact, endurance training occupies a considerably large spot in elite sports. Naturally, endurance training brings forth a bevy of benefits. One of the most important of these is a healthier body overall, according to the ‘Top 10 Benefits of Endurance Training’ that Life Hack published online. A healthier body is one that is capable of not only performing at apex levels, but also able to withstand the rigors of any sport. For a more sports-specific context, endurance training allows athletes to be on top of their game for sustained periods. Endurance training enables athletes to perform well from start to finish in the case of the truly elite athletes, like Terrence Crawford or Russell Westbrook. Endurance training requires athletes to perform various aerobic exercises. Men’s Journal explains that this works to help make muscles a lot more efficient. Specifically, aerobic activities like cycling and running train muscles to “wring every last bit of energy from the body’s natural fuel sources.” Athletes are thus able to develop a higher percentage of oxidative muscle fibers that are responsible for producing more energy. In other words, said muscles can make more energy, which leads to fatigue setting in much later. The overall effect is that the athlete is able to perform at a high level for far longer. That being said, sports science is now giving athletes, coaches, and trainers a more nuanced understanding of endurance training, including concepts such as maximal oxygen uptake (V̇DO2 max), lactate threshold, and training heart rate. The study ‘Is Endurance Training Bad for You?’ published in 2016 even refuted the claim made by a prior study that endurance training could lead to heart damage. Instead, it reinforced the now general consensus that having larger-than-normal hearts is actually a healthy manifestation of how the organ adjusts to regular endurance training. It’s no wonder then that stakeholders in various sports are investing in sports science, with an eye clearly on improving athletic performance. Sports psychologist Bradley Busch was interviewed by Coral, and he noted the huge investments made in sports science in the past 10 years. These have allowed players in the English Premier League to cover more ground, even as matches — some of the best and most intense in the world — drag on for over 96 minutes. Judging by those games, it is safe to say that players in the Premier League are some of the fittest athletes in the world, and endurance training is no doubt part of their regimens, as in the case of Manchester United’s soccer stars. Moreover, endurance training clears and strengthens the mind, mainly by boosting one’s mood and alleviating stress. It even changes the brain to some extent, helping it improve its ability to retain information and to think things through. These latter benefits are particularly important to elite athletes who often need to process a multitude of information at any given time. A wide receiver like Antonio Brown, for instance, needs to remember his route, assess how the defense is playing him, and adjust on the fly — all in a matter of seconds. Such split-second processing of information is only possible with a sharp, focused mind, which athletes can actually have by routinely performing endurance exercises.Without a doubt, endurance training has a place in elite sports, but given all this information, another question worth asking would be: What can we learn from all these?The price of greatness is steep. Anyone who dreams of excelling in their chosen sport will have to put in the work. Of course, that includes the nitty-gritty of endurance training, which can sometimes become a bit of a chore. After all, who likes running suicides for 30–45 minutes every day, right? But you want to be elite, don’t you? Then it’s time you incorporate endurance training into your fitness regimen. Getting either the Dude Pins-recommended Rogue Sr-1 Bearing Speed Rope or the Concept2 Ski-Erg would be a good start, as they can help get you fit in no time.

Technological advances are continually helping us accomplish our goals. It’s hard to find an industry where this is truer than in the fitness world. It’s never been easier to monitor your heart rate or calories lost. You can track progress over weeks and months or discover new workouts. These individual technologies may change how we control or set up our workout routines. But they aren’t everything. The access technology as a whole, i.e., the internet & social media, is completely re-shaping how and why we work out in two major ways. Let’s take a look!

Community

Finding motivation and a sense of belonging are huge benefits of working out in groups or with a class. Technology is making these communities and classes easier to find and join. We all know the CrossFit craze that is continuing to dominate the group exercise scene. But it’s important to understand that this isn’t the only option. For most actually, it’s the wrong option, especially for people who want to get started. The decision of what classes to join or communities to engage with should be based on your personal needs, not the latest fad.

Many people find themselves stuck between going to their local gym and working out on their own or joining a massive movement that isn’t right for them. Before the internet and social media, they didn’t know any other options. Technology is thankfully bridging this gap. Many local gyms are beginning to offer virtual training sessions with a trainer or virtual classes. If you are intimidated by the gym but still want to experience a sense of community, Virtual Gyms like Les Mills or virtual personal trainers like Aaptiv are a great solution. Technology is allowing us to find other people at our skill level and form communities based on our health needs rather than what’s popular at the time.

We also can’t discount the impact of social media on the fitness industry. The ability to share photos, videos or text updates is becoming more and more popular. Online challenges on Facebook or Instagram help keep participants accountable and motivated. The community you belong to doesn’t necessarily have to be the those you are physically working out with. Instead, it can be those to whom you are “reporting back.” If we feel like others are counting on us, or at least expecting us, to perform at a certain level, we are much more likely to gut through a workout and achieve our fitness goals.

Personalized Diets

The other area technology is shaping the way we work out in the abundance of dietary information that is available now. The internet and social media have given everyone access to more health information than ever thought possible.

Because of this, we no longer think in absolutes when it comes to our diets. The flood of information about what works and what doesn’t have finally led most people to the conclusion that your diet needs to be specific to you and you alone. There are of course dietary rules like more calories consumed than burned will cause weight gain, but there is a much more nuanced understanding of what a proper diet should be. A proper diet is one that allows an individual to accomplish their fitness goals. It’s that simple.

What works for some people concerning their goals, body type or schedule might not work for the next person. The Ketogenic diet is an excellent example of something that can work for a lot of people, but, if your schedule or dietary needs don’t allow for 16-18 hours of fasting, that’s okay! You’ll be able to find information on other options and individuals for whom it’s worked. If there is anything we’ve learned from all the studies, experiments and genetic testing that’s been done, it’s that your fitness goals need to be tailored to your body correctly.

“Fitness” has never been more accessible and community-driven than it is today. It’s also never been as customizable. As technology continues to advance, we’ll find more and more ways to find people who share our specific needs and hopefully achieve our fitness goals together!

The NFL is back, and we could not be more excited about it! From touchdowns to tailgates, there is a little bit of something this season for everyone. Football can bring the country together. Every Sunday, fans around America are able to chill out and relax on their couches, at local bars, or in the stadium to cheer on their team to victory. After the craziness that was Week One (we still can’t believe that Packers come back), we figured out a new statistic to add to your fantasy football league: average length of sex by each NFL fan base.

Fact or Fiction: Super Bowl Babies

Who can forget the infamous commercial during Super Bowl 50? Kids born 9 months after their team’s victory after their parents got it on to celebrate the victory. When a team wins, it brings euphoria and what better way to celebrate than intimate time with your significant other? Well, it turns out, that this is a real thing. New England has an experienced a baby boom in the greater Boston area from last year’s big game and on top of that, Philadelphia is predicting one this October as well. There is no doubt that babies are conceived in direct correlation with the performance of a team. Families in Boston can now thank the direct relationship of their existence due to a complete defensive breakdown in Super Bowl 51 from the Atlanta Falcons!

Length of Sex by Fan Base

Recently, we were able to take data from how long each state had sex for compared to each state’s preference on the local football team and determined which fans can score touchdowns in the bedroom. The results were interesting, to say the least. Cleveland has not won a game in over two years. They came up just short in Week One this year by tying Pittsburgh in an OT thriller. Rarely do games end in a tie, so it made it even more ironic for Browns fan. It literally ended in “The most Cleveland way possible.” On the other side of Ohio, Cincinnati didn’t fair very well either. They ended up in the last place of all 32 teams, where Cleveland ended 31st. This might not be too shocking to NFL fans keeping in mind the current trends of these teams.

On the other hand, it looks like Detroit would win the Superbowl of sex times. They come in at 4 minutes and 14 seconds, which is well above second place Kansas City at 3 minutes and 32 seconds. This may be the best thing about the Lions since always playing on Thanksgiving. They have yet to win a Super Bowl, but it might be their year according to some.

If you are looking to score more touchdowns in the bedroom, there is help out there that allows you to play harder than before and helps you to last the whole game. By helping relax blood vessels in your body and increase blood flow, you will be well on your way. If you really want to make it to 4th down, try switching up your jersey to score some more dates.

The Nike Roshe offers a lightweight shoe that is simple, versatile-and oozes style. This casual-wear shoe is perfect for wearing to and from the gym, after the game, or before practice. It is not a performance shoe though, as one might expect from the sports shoe juggernaut, Nike, but rather a part of their lifestyle lineup of footwear.

The Roshe is the result of a Nike designer ’s interpretation of what Zen would look like if it was a shoe. Stripping away any unnecessary elements, the Nike Roshe is the epitope of meditation, with few embellishments, a simple lace-up structure, breathable synthetic mesh, and a soft, flexible polymer sole for maximum shock absorption and comfort.

Nike Roshe

Nike is a Shoe God, err Goddess

If you are awake and facing the right way, you already know that Nike, Inc. is a multi-billion dollar athletic shoe and apparel company that is headquartered in Oregon. But maybe you did not know that the company was actually founded by a University of Oregon track star and his coach.

Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman, student and coach, respectively, founded Nike in 1964, and Bowerman began to market his running shoes (some say pressed in a waffle iron) at competitions, rallies, and practices as the Blue Ribbon Sports (BRS) athletic shoe.

Two years later, the two opened their first shop in Santa Monica, CA, and by 1971, the ubiquitous Nike Swoosh had been invented by Portland State University graphic design student, Carolyn Davidson. It wasn’t until 1974 that the symbol would be trademarked and patented, however.

The New Nike

Regardless, by 1980, the newly branded Nike, Inc had already bagged 50 percent of the US market shoe market. And in 1988, Dan Wieden of the ad agency, Wieden and Kennedy had coined the catchphrase “Just Do It!” It is worth noting that that particular campaign was so infectious and so successful that is currently ranked as one of the top five all times ad catchphrases by the Smithsonian Institute.

Nike’s key acquisitions both came in 2017 with their purchase of Convese, Inc and Hurley International, one a rival shoe company and the other a surfboard and surfing apparel manufacturer. Although its best-selling product line continues to come in Air Jordan's variation, high-performance basketball shoes named after Hall of Fame basketball legend, Micheal Jordan.

And for anyone who is wondering, yes, the shoemaker takes its name from the Greek goddess, Nike, who was, evidently, a close companion of Zeus’ and a friend of Athena’s. She was also the goddess of strength, speed, and victory, and often rewarded victors in battles with both fame and riches.

What’s So Great About the Nike Roshe, Anyhow?

Nowadays, Nike sells more than shoes, though, as they have promotional deals on the table with football, basketball, running, combat sports, tennis, and golf associations, including deals with pro and college sports organizations. So, out of all of those product lines, what makes the Roshe so special?

Pros

Well, for one, according to one review site, the Roshe truly one of Nike’s most comfortable and lightweight shoes ever made. In fact, many reviewers agree that the retro minimalist design is both stylish and understated.

Also, at 7 ounces, it is kind of like wearing baby clouds on your feet, and the synthetic-mesh combo is both breathable and durable. Moreover, the suede insole and foam sole combine for supreme shock absorption and comfort, as the foam conforms to the wearer’s feet. Plus, at around $80, they are more affordable than many other shoes in the Nike product line.

Cons

Of course, not everyone loves the Roshe, and many runners from the same review complained that the Roshe felt flimsy on their feet. Also, they noted narrow sizes, and some customers even noticed the insoles bunching up inside of the shoe. A minor complaint was that the white outsole picked up dirt quickly and was hard to clean.

As the dust settled on the Roshe Run the shoe raked up a final score of 89 out of one hundred, with those in the pro camp citing the lightweight comfortable design and those of the con persuasion insisting that the shoe lacked in matters of construction and durability.

You say Potato, I Say Patato: Nike Roshe Run, One, Two

Nike Rosche Run

The Roshe Run was indeed a hit. But there is a fair bit of confusion that comes about when one is pricing out and researching the Nike Roshe series. In an attempt to distinguish the iterations of this lightweight shoe, we will begin with the Nike Roshe Run. Released in 2012, the Roshe Run took the active walking/runner shoe community by storm.

This new, innovative shoe was like nothing anyone had seen before. And though some questions about the quality of materials used in its making, it was generally viewed as a resounding success by all. Then, in 2015, Nike quietly renamed the "Nike Roshe Run" to "Nike Roshe One". This in anticipation of the shoes the second iteration due to come out later in the year.

Nike Roshe One

It is worth noting that the term Roshe is actually a nod to the Japanese word for Zen Master, “Roshi,”. And that, in terms of inner peace and comfort, the Roshe 2 was a far superior shoe. The Roshe 2 had an even lower price point than the One. And it featured many improvements over its predecessor, namely in the stretchable and breathable neoprene mesh now found on its upper.

Also called PC-rubber. Neoprene promised to be far more durable than the previously used hard abs plastic-polymer mesh on the Roshe One. Neoprene is known for its elasticity and is used in the making of wetsuits, diving gear, floor mats, and even clothing. Plus, due to its insulating nature, the Roshe again gained in popularity. As it could now be worn in warm and cold weather.

Nike Roshe Two

The Roshe 2 also kept its original silhouetted look, which led to is marketing as an athletic and semi-formal shoes. The Two also featured a new sock-liner. As well as added memory foam cushioning and soft padding for a luxurious feel and heightened comfort.

Plus, pull loops found on the tongue and heels meant you could easily slip the shoes on and off. A padded collar, rubber outsole, and slightly diminished branding all lead to a shoe that was more versatile, comfortable, and flexible than its predecessor.

The Nike Roshe 2 and 2 SE

Released shortly after to the Roshe 2 the Roshe 2 SE featured a new and improved lacing system with upgraded perforations for better ventilation. And it features a combination of flexible textile material and a woven mesh construction on the upper.

Despite these “upgrades,” however, the 2 SE scored lower than both the Roshe One and Two. And bagged an 86 out of one 100 by Run Repeat. People did not like that the shoe was not true to size, that it was difficult to put on and take off. And that it, again, lacked in upper foot support.

After the improvements to the Roshe 2, you would have thought that support for the SE would have been higher. Nevertheless, let's have another look at what folks liked about the regular Nike Roshe 2.

Most of them revealed that they will recommend this pair to their friends.

Easy to put on and take off.

The only thing really holding back the two was its reportedly narrow sizing. Yet, despite this criticism, the Roshe 2 soared to a rank of 90 out of 100. And rated as Nike’s 58th best sneaker of all time.

From Humble Roots Comes a New Shoe Champion

Originally designed to be a simple, inexpensive, and even minimalistic, the Roshe is a shoe line for everyday wear. It started its climb to greatness with no celebrity endorsements and hardly any technology. It had two goals: to be lightweight and to be comfortable.

Dylan Raasch, the designer of the line, even admitted the idea for the shoe was completely stripped down from any other shoe that Nike had done. “The simpler I could make it, the more profound it would become," he recently revealed.

Hitting that nail squarely on the head, Raasch again got the nod for the second iteration of the Roshe. With which he chose solely to concentrate on comfort. And, the Nike Roshe Two did not disappoint. The sneaker gained in the areas of durability and comfort exponentially, and yet, it did not sacrifice that understated style.

Lacing System

It did upgrade its lacing system, though, and it also added a supplemental foam layer for extra cushioning. The shoe also got an upgrade to the foot-collar, along with an added sock-like fit. It cemented the shoe’s place in Nike history as one of the most comfortable shoes ever invented.

Then, as if more changes were necessary, the Nike Roshe Two was announced at the next shoe to receive Nike highly regarded Flyknit treatment. It features everything you love about the original Roshe two and adds Nike's signature Flyknit mesh technology. This transformed the shoe into something that was even more flexible and breathable.

Yet all of that new technology came at a price and the new total for the shoe that was supposed to be stripped down rose to 100 bucks or more. It definitely pushed the limits of this minimalistic sneaker with humble intentions.

Nike Roshe Wrap-up

The Roshe Run (one) was one of Nike’s most popular shoes to date. Its sleek, minimalistic design and lightweight feel made it a perfect casual shoe. But it was not recommended for sports and high-impact activities, as many users soon found out.

The Roshe Two, however, featured many technology upgrades that brought increases in comfort and durability. Plus a minor tweak to the sole of the Nike Roshe Two brought a dual-density memory foam insole to sit on top of the existent EVA foam midsole. It created the improved performance triple density sole of the Roshes second iteration.

Nike Upgrades

The new technology molded around the runner's foot to record precise compression points in specific areas, resulting in long-lasting comfort. The outsole, too, had been tinkered and independent waffle flaps allow for "improved flexibility” and grip. So which one is the best? Well, that depends on what kind of shoe you are after.

The more athletically inclined Roshe 2 received some much-needed upgrades to bring it to performance level. But the Run was extremely trim and lightweight and hard to resist.

The Roshe 2 SE and Flyknit also have their pros and cons. But ultimately, in this review, the Original Roshe 2 seems to be the best multitasker for the price point. At around $60, the Roshe 2 is the perfect blend of affordability, technology, comfort, and durability. That is, until the next round of updates from the Greek Goddess of running comes along.

Growing a beard is one of the things that will give you fulfillment as a man. Often, too many men tend to think that the beard will develop into a thick and lush mane all by itself. There are grooming mistakes that you will make in your attempt to grow the most notable facial mane. However, there are tasks you need to carry out to care and maintain your beard if you expect to be the envy of the men and women folk alike.

For your beard to grow neat and admirable, you have to know some beard grooming tips, and how and when to trim it. Those runaway and straggly strands need to go, you need the beard to look smart and smell fresh. You need to know what products to use and mainly how and when to clean it. There are many beard care mistakes you can make, so you need to know how to avoid the following.

1. Ignoring Beard Oil

If you want your beard to come out looking smooth, you need to invest in quality beard oil. Beard oil is one of the essential products you cannot afford to skip in your grooming kit. If you avoid it, your beard may as well turn into one rough mess. With proper application, you moisturize the skin underneath, and you turn your messy mane into a shiny and healthy looking beard. You don’t want to mess that look just because you ignored the beard oil that makes your beard easy to comb, you don’t have to worry about itchy and sore skin underneath your mane.

2. Not Brushing

A good number of beard lovers don’t know the importance of beard brushing. This means daily brushing isn’t a priority to them. You don’t want to ignore such a simple practice only to end up looking dirty and shaggy. Brushing will help distribute any oil you have applied, and it trains your beard to grow in one direction, instead of all over the place. Your facial hair is prone to dandruff, but constant brushing will get rid of such. Even if you have a short beard, it’s no excuse for skipping the brush, you can start with a fine comb and get a brush as it grows out.

3. Giving Up Easily

The say beard grooming is an art. Apparently, it’s a complicated one. In your quest for a thick and fuller beard, you need to practice tons of patience. Your mane won’t grow in a fortnight. Don’t make the mistake of giving up and cutting it even before two weeks have passed. You need to wait out for at least 7 weeks and see how it turns out. Even if your beard is patchy, leaving it out to grow will give you better results. After a period of free growth, you will be amazed at how those patches get filled up.

4. Believing Beard Myths

Many beard myths are being bandied around, and believing them blindly is a bane to your beard health and looks. You can try and do your own digging to find out whether any myth out there has some truth in it. There is something wrong in believing an outrageous assumption regarding beards. Some people will go wrong by thinking that a patchy beard will never fully grow out. Others will err by worshiping the assumption that by shaving the mane, you are likely to grow it back albeit faster and thicker. Don’t believe those who say that your beard must be cut down completely if you expect to fit a corporate setting.

5. Trimming Too Much, Too Soon

Trimming your beard right is one tricky task. You may not achieve it until you try it over and over again. Often, many beard lovers get their trimmers way ahead of time. Avoid trimming it before it’s due. You are likely to make a mistake meaning you could go back to doing it fresh from scratch. At the same time, you will avoid those beard care mistakes if you have a set of rules to work with.

You need to know your face shape and start trimming according to the features of your face and jawline. If you are itching to trim, take out small bits at a time. You cannot re-grow a huge tuft you have cut out accidentally. Your beard oil should be your friend, and you cannot forget brushing the beard, it’s the easiest task of all.

Technological advances are continually helping us accomplish our goals. It’s hard to find an industry where this is truer than in the fitness world. It’s never been easier to monitor your heart rate or calories lost. You can track progress over weeks and months or discover new workouts. These individual technologies may change how we control or set up our workout routines. But they aren’t everything. The access technology as a whole, i.e., the internet & social media, is completely re-shaping how and why we work out in two major ways. Let’s take a look!

Community

Finding motivation and a sense of belonging are huge benefits of working out in groups or with a class. Technology is making these communities and classes easier to find and join. We all know the CrossFit craze that is continuing to dominate the group exercise scene. But it’s important to understand that this isn’t the only option. For most actually, it’s the wrong option, especially for people who want to get started. The decision of what classes to join or communities to engage with should be based on your personal needs, not the latest fad.

Many people find themselves stuck between going to their local gym and working out on their own or joining a massive movement that isn’t right for them. Before the internet and social media, they didn’t know any other options. Technology is thankfully bridging this gap. Many local gyms are beginning to offer virtual training sessions with a trainer or virtual classes. If you are intimidated by the gym but still want to experience a sense of community, Virtual Gyms like Les Mills or virtual personal trainers like Aaptiv are a great solution. Technology is allowing us to find other people at our skill level and form communities based on our health needs rather than what’s popular at the time.

We also can’t discount the impact of social media on the fitness industry. The ability to share photos, videos or text updates is becoming more and more popular. Online challenges on Facebook or Instagram help keep participants accountable and motivated. The community you belong to doesn’t necessarily have to be the those you are physically working out with, instead, it can be those you are “reporting back” to. If we feel like others are counting on us, or at least expecting us, to perform at a certain level, we are much more likely to gut through a workout and achieve our fitness goals.

Personalized diets

The other area technology is shaping the way we work out is in the abundance of dietary information that is available now. The internet and social media have given everyone access to more health information than ever thought possible.

Because of this, we no longer think in absolutes when it comes to our diets. The flood of information about what works and what doesn’t has finally led most people to the conclusion that your diet needs to be specific to you and you alone. There are of course dietary rules like more calories consumed than burned will cause weight gain, but there is a much more nuanced understanding of what a proper diet should be. A proper diet is one that allows an individual to accomplish their fitness goals. It’s that simple.

What works for some people regarding their goals, body type or schedule might not work for the next person. The Ketogenic diet is an excellent example of something that can work for a lot of people but, if you schedule or dietary needs don’t allow for 16-18 hours of fasting that’s ok! You’ll be able to find information on other options and individuals for whom it’s worked. If there is anything we’ve learned from all the studies, experiments and genetic testing that’s been done, it’s that your fitness goals need to be tailored to your body correctly.

“Fitness” has never been more accessible and community-driven than it is today. It’s also never been as customizable. As technology continues to advance, we’ll find more and more ways to find people who share our specific needs and hopefully achieve our fitness goals together!

​Are you single in the country? Are you a lonely farmer or rancher? If you are a cowgirl, cowboy, or just a regular old country bumkin, Farmers Only is a dating site that can help match you with the love of your life.

If you are struggling to find the partner of your dreams but would never consider of leaving the countryside to join them on your quest to find true love, with this online dating site, you may not have to. FarmersOnly is a dating an matching site that caters specifically to those who are interested in Rural Dating, Christian Dating, Small Town Dating, and just plain old Country Values.

Farmers Only Dating Site

Farmers Only History and Mission

Brought into the national spotlight by launching a series of YouTube videos in 2007, Farmers Only was launched by Jerry Miller, an agricultural marketing agent in 2005. Jerry lived in the country and saw many of his friends struggle like square pegs in round hole to find love through city singles parties and mainstream dating sites with little to no success.

National media considered the site, at first, to be little more than a hoax, and the ubiquitous country living jokes soon ensued. Now, however, it is estimated that the farmers dating service has over a million users and has seen paid endorsements from celebrities like Ellen DeGeneres, Carrie Underwood, and even basketball superstar, Carmello Anthony.

City and Rural Folks

Nevertheless, the contest between city folks and rural “folks” continues, and in fact, it had been a well-documented feud throughout history. The educated, “refined” city dweller scoff at the country lifestyle, and the countryman wants nothing to do with the ridiculous city ways. It is an ongoing disagreement that had endured since at least the time of the Greeks, and it has been documented in fables, like The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse, one of the more popular tales from Aesop's Fables.

Farmers Only plays on this juxtaposition to attract like-minded clientele to their website and sign up for their dating services. Their member numbers are relatively low compared to Zoosk and other dating sites, but that works in the site’s favor. There really is no need for a fancy matching algorithm and member profiles to feature a pretty plain-jane cockpit with access to a secure online chat room and a hot-or-not style “Discovery” game and phone texting services.

City Folks Just Don’t Get it: Farming is Hard

Other than that, Farmers Only relies entirely on like-minded people performing manual searches to find relationship naturally. In fact, the company’s ads are simple, the services are simple, and heck, even the registration process is simple, offering only a 4-question sign up form so that users are up and running in less than a minute.

Once logged in, the users get an editable username and the option to add more details about themselves, like an avatar, likes and dislike, and other biographical information. And all that simplicity is good, according to Jerry Miller, because farmers and ranchers don’t have a lot of free time, they work long hours, and they work on weekends. So simple is kind of a necessity.

LifeStyle

Further, Miller adds in this online article by The Guardian, that many people refer to the area where he lives (America’s grain belt) as “flyover country” as they traverse their way from L.A. to New York or Boston and back again. Miller witnessed many friends who were lacking in love struggle with loneliness because they had chosen the “simpler” lifestyle.

Admittedly, a farmer’s day is not exactly conducive to dating: get up at the crack of day, feed animals, do barn chores, fix stuff, clear fields, have lunch, plant field, work well into the evening, have a late supper, go to bed early. This may not be true every day, but, you get the general gist of it.

Still, the full computer website is true to its roots and still accounts for about 50 percent of logins. And the site itself offers a blog with allegorical and whimsical stories, recipes, farming tips and tricks, and a link to the Farmers Only online store, which features hand gadgets and tools.

The Farmers Only Process: Quick and Simple

The process is really is quite easy, as reported in this article. When you come to the Farmers Only website, you will be approached by four questions in order to register: what are your email address, your zip code, age, and sexual orientation of you and the person you want to meet?

After filling out that info, you will be assigned a username and a profile. You may change the profile name or leave it, and you may also you upload a picture and fill out as much information as you are comfortable providing.

Matching Process

As discussed, there is no enhanced matching algorithm. But instead, the site uses a process that is decidedly more granular and manual in nature. The “discovery” feature offers a like-dislike (hot or not) game. This is where you choose to form a basic set of personality traits, and mark them as like or dislike.

From here, your profile is pretty much set up. And you can perform a standard search using a limited set of filters to narrow down your potential matches. The standard search allows you to search by age range and a few other criteria. But filters like marital status, ethnicity, body type, and relationship desired can only be unlocked with a paid account.

The Good, Bad, and Ugly

Search results are, evidently, displayed in groups of 15. And all you have to do is click on a profile to connect with a person you like. (Beware though, if you come on too strong you can be blocked.) Secure online chat also offers a convenient venue for protected conversations online. And a convenient “who’s online” menu allows you to monitor your favorite connections.

Advantages

From your console, you can also keep track of likes, dislike, and passes, and other sections include an email inbox. Also, a list of who has been checking out your profile online, a link to the Farmers Only store, and a link to the FarmPhone service. It transforms site messages into phone texts for a monthly service fee.

Everything on the Farmers Only website is laid out in a simple and easy-to-read manner. And registration is quick and easy (though some reviewers claim it is a little too easy). The site has a lot going for it, which helps to explain its longevity.

The Cost of Farmer Online Romance

A Premium FarmersOnly.com membership has a going rate of $21.95 per month. But, if you pay for three months upfront you’ll save 10%, for a total cost of $39.95. Moreover, 6 months in advance costs just $65.95, according to one reviewer’s website.

One thing to watch out for, however, is that regardless of your membership option the site will automatically bill the credit card on file unless access is canceled in advance of the renewal date. Farmers Only offers no refunds for missed cancellations, and once membership is canceled, your account stays intact but reverts to the free version.

It is worth noting as well that Farmers Only claims to enforce a strict privacy policy and uses industry-standard hardware and software to ensure the privacy of its users, their personal information, and their correspondence. Indeed, Ask Men online gives them an 8 out of ten for safety in their review.

Don’t City Folks get It, Though?

But, for one reviewer, safety also translates to the big burly arms of a farmer. According to Carolyn Castiglia, a self-admitted city girl, and blogger, there is a real and universal appeal to the thought of having a meaningful relationship with a rugged farmer of high moral fiber.

In her article on Your Tango, she relays her thoughts the romanticized notion of living the simple life. That is plowing the fields, planting his crops, tending herds, and putting family first. In fact, this glossy view of farming has been popularized by TV shows like Green Acres, the Ranch, and Heartland.

What She Did

And, even though Farmers Only boasts that “city folk just don’t get it,” she thought she clearly did. So much did she get it that she decided to set up an account. And right away she found guys on that she thought “were legit hard-working blue-collar guys who like ridin' four-wheelers and fixin' busted cars.”

Carolyn goes on to say that, by and far, most profiles that were matched to her profile talked about emotional intimacy. And she was particularly enamored with one young man who spoke being able to shoe one’s softer side in public.

Not Everyone Loves a Farmer

But not everyone is so accepting of the profiles they have found on Farmers Only. And one site even all but condemns the dating service based on its poor web traffic, and “non-existent security measures.”

Best Company sites a lack of profile verification, bot profiles, and catfishing scheme as an epidemic on Farmers Only. And review site further maintains that the internal interface “looks like it hasn’t been updated in 15 years.” Moreover, they claim that the mobile app keeps crashing and is all but useless.

Below, their list of faults leaves little room for praise. And in fact, the only praise received was that the site had successfully narrowed the dating pool to make it easier for farmers to find farmers.

While these findings are in sharp contrast to most reviews we have seen, it is not out of the realm of possibilities, especially when dealing with an antiquated site and potentially aging technologies.

Other Reviews

The realities of using any dating site or social site, for that matter, is that the person you are talking to on the other end is not who they claim to be. We strongly encourage you to do your due diligence and ask a lot of questions online. Also, on the phone, and even in person before you commit to a relationship. If you are initially skeptical or feel some unexplained apprehension about something, it may be for good reason.

Dating is hard. And an online dating site may make it more convenient, but dating sites are not magic pills for successful relationships. They are tools to help you form connections. Farmers Only has seen some success, but that doesn't mean you don’t still have to protect yourself. You wouldn’t go into a crowded grocery store and shout you a physical address to everyone there. So don’t feel obligated to do it in a chatroom.

Farmers Only Wrap-up

Since FarmersOnly success, many competitors have popped up around the web as rival dating sites. ChristianMingle, Zoosk, Farmers Meet, Farmers Only Dating, Redneck and Single, and Hillbilly Dating are just a few of the competitors.

However, farmers and country folk alike are, admittedly, creatures of habit. And Miller’s rural dating site and its cheeky back-country-centric Youtube videos are unlikely to be dethroned by these other niche competitors.

Although Farmers Only doesn’t have deep pockets or a fancy matching algorithm like Zoosk, the site has been connecting rural folks. For over a decade with the easy-to-use, simple, intuitive matching website.

Men's rompers are, essentially, jumpsuits, though they are not as ruggedly built or utilitarian as those seen on Top Gun of Ghostbusters. The clothing type first became popular around the turn of the 19th Century, as play wear for young children, mainly because they were easy to get on and take off, and were durable.

Considered to be casual clothing, the original rompers were meant to be lightweight and loose-fitting, and far less formal than clothes worn during the Victorian era. In the 1950s, the appeal of rompers broadened into women’s leisure and beachwear, though it was not until recent decades that the style became popular in men’s apparel.

Since the 2000s, though, rompers have enjoyed a bit of a resurgence, and popular designers have given these onesies for men a nod in the right direction, with sleepwear and leisurewear often leading the charge.

Men's Romper: Pros & Cons

Men's Romper

Mens Romper Design Equals Comfort: Hype or Fact?

Remember PJ's? Do you also remember the pair that was so comfy you wore them to go out for breakfast? Remember that Christmas when you just never took them off? Well, that is kind of what wearing a romper feels like. Except rompers are lightweight, not as scratchy, and meant to be worn to parties or on beach outings.

If you Google rompers, you will find pages upon pages of ads and suggested online stores. That feature description like, “ultra-comfortable,” or “premium cotton,” or “breathable fabric,” or “Smart Fit.” These statements may all be true for the style in general. But not helpful descriptors in understanding just what a men's romper is. However, they do lend to a useful jumping off point from which to better understand the clothing style itself, and men’s clothing, collectively.

Advantages

Well, with rompers, you get the best of both worlds. And with new, stylish designs found in stores and all over the web, men can have that comfy just-got-out-of-bed feeling all day long, and look stylish at the same time. That is the beauty of the men's romper. Or at least so the ads and infectious photo campaigns would have you believe.

Not everyone is buying into how happy those onesie-wearing bros seem to be. As Mark-Evan Blackman, assistant professor of menswear design at the Fashion Institute of Technology, remarked in thisL.A. Times article, “I think it’s outrageous. Who wants to see a grown man dressed like a toddler?”

Nevertheless, the men’s romper has been all the rage on the internet as of late, and RompHim has taken up the reigns and led the charge into the battle with their cheeky all-in-one romper offerings in 2017. With the claim that men too should be able to have a diverse wardrobe and experience the freedom of a one-piece outfit, RompHim started playing around with the idea of a men's romper in 2016.

Romphim

As the story goes, RompHim, then, started with a Kickstarter-crowdfunded campaign to raise a meager $10,000. Low and behold, due to enthusiastic support, their seeded money grew to be around 350,000 dollars by the time the dust had settled. When asked what the deal was with men’s rompers, Elaine Chen, one of RompHim’s founders, told GQMagazine in 2017, “We think this is a way for guys to have a new option in their wardrobe.”

Reebok

Whatever RompHim did seemed to be working, as the men's romper was so seeming popular that other designers were picking up the style. Companies like Zara, Sheenan & Co., NSF, KTZ, and even Reebok announced their version of men's rompers within the year.

Let’s have a look at some of the most outrageous selections in men's rompers. Some of you will wonder where the fanciful land of the model runway stops. And the clothing outlets begin, but that is just part of the adventure.

So What is the Real Deal with Men’s Rompers?

Men's rompers, believe it or not, do have their critics. And one article calls the style the “day-drinking uniform for people who hang out on rooftops and go to Coachella.” This was probably an intended jab not only at the romper itself but at its de-facto spokesmen. It is the notoriously flamboyant socialite and football star, Cam Newton, who was seen wearing a floral print romper at Coachella 2017.

Cam is as known as much for his antics off the field as he is for his on-the-field play as the QB of Carolina Panthers (NFL). And he has often been seen in such provocative attire as a top hat, gold cleats, a Santa suit, and a barbershop quartet hat.

Other Critics

RompHim admits on its website that it seeks to break down stereotypes. And we can imagine that that was, at least, in part of what Cam was doing at the festival. Further, the idea of a group of bros having fun together is, in and of itself, pretty innocent and even nostalgic. But, aside from rich football players, are there that many guys out there with the free time and the inclination to wear one?

As Terri Peters and her husband found out, the onesies are not that comfortable to be running errands. Like in so how many dudes without families, work obligation, and honey-do-lists have to time to throw on snazzy one-piece and head to the closest rooftop bar for brunch?

Comments

One comment questioned his manhood, while another imported about his sexual preference. Dismayed by the whole outing, Brandon reportedly returned home to escape the clothing and the negative vehemence that clung to it. He relayed that he threw the crumpled romper on the floor and has not since adorned it again.

If this account is true or even inflated from real events, it is more than a little disheartening. That a piece of clothing can bring on such disdain from onlookers. How can clothing be so polarizing? Well, Brandon actually points to the answer in his article. It seems he was moved to get a RompHim in the first place after watching Alex Jones’ “ridiculous” Youtube channel. (You may look up Jones’ channel on your own, but we won’t be featuring a link here.)

Men Wear Rompers For A Day

The following takes a brief look at the world of the men’s onesie:

The first offering on the list boasts a stormtrooper-like zombie-apocalypse inspired jumper from the British label KTZ. In all black, with leather accents, the design features a number of different pulls and pockets. And with metal buttons and snaps. The outfit goes for a little over $1,000 on this retailers website. Though, sadly, the getup sold out shortly after it first appeared in 2017.

Song for the Mute will appeal to men seeking ninja attire and leisure suit all-in-one. With its buttoned and collared design, the outfit features a material artist-like waist belt that you can tie. This jumpsuit meets at the place of fashion and performance and costs a little 800 dollars.

Perfect for a pool party or safari hunt. This offering from Mr. Turk is beige-hued with “a light herringbone pattern.” We actually think we saw Higgins from Magnum P.I. wearing this in the 80’s. And the short onesie goes for just under $350 on the designer’s website.

If it has been a dream of yours to own a pair of ski pants without the over-the-shoulder buckles, designer Rick Owens has got the rompers for you. You’ll pay just under $1200 for them. But what you will get is, well, ski pants without the over the shoulder buckles. This sleeveless jumpsuit comes with no sleeves. But the upshot is that you are sure to turn some heads with the full-length marshmallow-style pants.

Rompers: Not Made for Average American Fathers & Husbands

Many of the aforementioned styles are designed to be over-the-top on purpose, because rompers, in general, seem to have marketed to the most flamboyant and free-spirited men on the planet. It seems like guys wearing romper are always having fun, exploring the world, interacting with friends, drinking and laughing, or gleefully posing for the camera.

Where in reality do these fun-loving bros come from? Are they born in the woods to sprites and elves? Are they trust fund babies? Child prodigy millionaires? Who is RompHim marketing to? A crowd-funded 350,000 on Kickstarter has to come from somewhere, and the company claims to now ship globally so men somewhere are buying and wearing the style, right?

The History

Despite the many questions about the brand, RompHim was established in 2016 by ACED Design. The company, by many accounts, was an overnight success, going global in just under a year. Their design, supposedly, appeals to men who want to experience the freedom of wearing cuffed 7-inch shorts, a cinched, adjustable waist, cuffed sleeves, and an adjustable half- collar. All RompHims are made of 98% cotton and 2% spandex for the perfect comfort level of stretchiness.

Admittedly, all of that romping marketing is infectious. And we will concede that the bros do look like they are having more fun than we can ever remember having, in our youths or otherwise. But would regular fathers and husbands actually wear RompHims?

Well, one suburban couple put the men’s onesie to the test. And in their experience, romping around in a RompHim isn’t maybe as provocative. Or, as comfortable as it is cracked up to be. In a story by NBC’s new arm, Today, contributor Terri Peters had her husband and father of two wear a “red chambray” romper around town. This is while carrying out daily errands around their FL home.

The Husband

As the family departed, Andrew, the husband, wore a classic pink romper with boat shoes. As the family followed, Terri couldn’t stop giggling. First, they hit the park, then the grocery store, and finally the garden supply shop. In the end, other than a few heads turned and some double-takes, reactions were not outrageous. Halfway through the task list, though, it was reported that Andrew began complaining about the suit becoming hot and stuffy in the intense Florida sun.

Nothing a slurpy and a poolside beer wouldn’t fix. The trip was largely uneventful, aside from a guy in a pickup taking a photo of Andrew on the way home. Safely home-bound, Andrew wore the getup poolside for a while. But by the end of the experiment, neither of his children were a fan of the outfit. His daughter actually claimed it “looked ridiculous” on her father.

Men’s Romper: The Power of Polarizing Clothing

Even single dudes work. And, one single dude who lives in New York describes his day in a mens romper in an article on ManRepeller. Brandon Borror-Chappell tells a tale of both excitement and regret surrounding his purchase of a pair of mens rompers. After unboxing the purchase with feverish excitement, he proudly adorns the outfit. And proceeded with confidence to his local diner for a few drinks and a bite.

Seated by a respectful and polite waitress who compliments his attire (Brandon wonders if it is sarcastic), he is soon met by murmurs, timid glances, and semi-private conversations about his new jumpsuit. The gasps soon turn negative. And the aggressive, almost frightful commentary picks up again when he finds himself at a local vineyard for a wine tasting.

How To Style A Men's Romper And Make It Work

Men’s Romper Wrap Up: Fashion or Fad?

Jones’ channel though did, in fact, influence the popularity of the mens romper in Brandon’s case. And maybe, that too is part of the appeal. Perhaps, in a strange way, the mens romper is a protest against the rigid myopathy of seeing the world and the people in it in only one way. Perhaps the mens romper represents freedom in more ways than one.

The ridiculousness of a men's romper for us, though, is not about it being different and new, but it is about its flamboyant marketing. Those happy dudes should get to wear what makes them happy. The ridiculousness is in the price. And, when you can get a decent pair of comfortable, all-purpose jeans online for between $20-50 (and a tee for $15), how does it make any sense to buy clothing with less material for more money like $100 – 1000?

Jumping into the world of online dating can be an intimidating feat with so many sites to choose from. If you’re looking to ease into the online dating scene, then OkCupid may be the right site for you. With its simple design and unique profile questions, OkCupid is one of the easiest dating sites to get started on.

Read this review to get an in-depth look what services OkCupid provides, how they stack up to the competition, a step-by-step guide on how to sign up, and more.

OkCupid: Pros & Cons

Each online dating service is unique, and strive to serve specific problems their customers face in today’s dating world. OkCupid, like any other online dating site, has its own pros and cons to weigh when making a decision to sign up.

Here are a few areas where OkCupid succeeds, and a few areas where they can improve.

PROS

No cost to browse, search for matches, or message other users

Easy-to-navigate design that makes it easy to get set up quickly

Low cost A-List subscription gives access to valuable features

Search feature allows you to discover matches based on unique variables such as interests, attractiveness, vices, and more

CONS

Not as large a database as other online dating sites

A lot of fake accounts due to no-cost registration

OkCupid Dating Site

Dating and Technology: A Perfect Match

We often think of combining technology and dating as something that only took off in recent years. The truth is that humans have been using technology to search for potential mates for hundreds of years. The first iteration of online dating can be traced all the way back to the late 1600s when the first use of personal ads began appearing in newspapers. Hopeful singles would place ads in the paper with information about their likes, dislikes, and what they are looking for in a relationship. Similar to the online dating profile of today, these ads were placed in hopes that eligible singles would reach out to make a connection.

It wasn’t until the explosion of the Internet in the late 1990s that the modern iteration of online dating profiles began to form. The first online dating site, Match.com, was launched in 1995. Since then, online dating services have become one of the highest paid industries on the Internet. Today, there are hundreds of dating services that offer users a chance to connect with singles based on a variety of different preferences.

What is OkCupid?

OkCupid is a sleek, easy-to-use online dating service that aims to help users make meaningful connections. With over 30 million members registered and over 1 million users logging in daily, OkCupid is one of the largest online dating services on the market. Its interface is sleek and simple, making it one of the most user-friendly applications in the online dating services industry.

Though headquartered in America, OkCupid is operating internationally and offers services in a variety of different languages. This allows you to talk to other users around the world that you may not have otherwise had the opportunity to connect with.

OkCupid has no cost to sign up, and a free profile gives you access to their database of members looking to connect. Along with their free messaging service, OkCupid offers a diverse number of premium features with their A-List program to help you get the most out of your dating profile. Popular features include more comprehensive search options, profile-boosting, and an incognito mode.

How OkCupid Works

OkCupid’s goal is to let you show off who you really are by creating rich profiles that go beyond just a photo. The profile process is one of the most in-depth in the industry and works to get to know you through a selection of randomly selected open-ended and multiple-choice questions. These questions range from the simple (“Would you date someone with children?”) to the abstract (“Would you ever eat anything out of the trash?”).

Once you answer enough questions, OkCupid will use your answers to find the profiles that best match your own. As you continue to answer more questions and interact with more profiles, OkCupid’s advanced algorithms will adapt to find the right people to make connections with. In addition to potential match percentages, OkCupid also warns you of profiles to avoid with an enemy compatibility percentage.

How to Join OkCupid

Register. You can register on OkCupid using either your email or by connecting your Facebook account. Be prepared to go through a CAPTCHA verification process to prove you aren’t a fake profile.

Setting Up Your Profile. Once you have created a password, OkCupid prompts you to set up your profile ‘About Me’ section. Here you will provide them with basic information such as your name, gender, age, and location.

The next section of your profile revolves around the kind of person you’re looking for. Here you can show other users what kinds of connections you are open to, such as hookups, friendships, short-term or long-term relationships. This is also the section that indicates your ideal partners’ gender and age range.

Photos

The last step in setting up your OkCupid profile is to add some photos of yourself. To start, OkCupid allows you to upload 6 pictures. Make sure to only use recent photos of yourself that you think best represent who you are.

Answering Questions. After your profile has been created, you will be presented with a selection of yes or no questions. OkCupid has a vast collection of thousands of questions for their users to answer and will select 15 at random to start your profile off. You can answer more of these questions at any time to create a more complete profile that will attract the right people.

Search for Matches. With your profile complete, OkCupid will show you a variety of local singles they believe may be a match. They ask you to pick three singles that you may be interested in. Not only does this connect you with local singles, but it also allows OkCupid’s algorithms to get an idea of your ideal type. Once this process is finished, you are free to browse and interact with other active members.

Key Features of OkCupid

Image: OkCupid logo used with permission from okcupid.com

Match and Enemy Percentages. One of the most unique features offered by OkCupid is their match and enemy percentages, which are calculated for every profile you view. These percentages give you insight into whether or not the person whose profile you are looking at is compatible based on OkCupid’s algorithms.

DoubleTake. DoubleTake is a feature that shows you a deeper look at the profile of your matches one at a time. Also, DoubleTake highlights a user’s personality and interests, letting you take a deeper look into their individuality. If a profile interests you, you can swipe left to match, or right to pass.

Profile Boosts. Exclusive to OkCupid, the Incognito Mode allows you to browse the site or app completely hidden. No one will see you were online, and users whose profiles you look at will not get a notification stating you viewed their profile. This feature can be included for a low monthly fee.

Incognito Mode. Exclusive to OkCupid, the Incognito Mode allows you to browse the site or app completely hidden. No one will see you were online, and users whose profiles you look at will not get a notification stating you viewed their profile. This feature can be included for a low monthly fee.

OkCupid Plan Pricing

OkCupid’s free signup gives you the ability to create a comprehensive profile and allows you to access their database of over 30 million users. Features included with their free account are the ability to like and message profiles, match/enemy percentages, and profound search filter options that let you narrow down the right people.

A-List Basic

OkCupid also has a paid service which they call A-List. Becoming an A-List Member opens your account up to new features. The most popular feature with A-List is the ability to see which profiles have ‘liked’ you. This helps you narrow down people who are already interested in you, and shows you what kind of people your profile attract. A-List enables you to check to your messages were read or ignored, and browse profiles without notifying the user.

Purchasing an A-List membership unlocks better search optimization options, including new filters that will allow you to search by attractiveness, body type, personality, and more. Recently, OkCupid has updated their search function so you can search for profiles based on how they answered certain questions.

A-List has three basic pricing tiers:

1 month for $9.95/month

3 months for $7.95/month

6 months for $4.95/month

A-List Premium

Users looking to upgrade their experience even further have the option of purchasing A-List Premium. Along with everything the A-List Basic plan has to offer, A-List Premium provides users with a daily 15-minute profile boost that allows them to be seen by more people during peak hours. A-List Premium also increases how often you can see and be seen by attractive matches. In addition, A-List Premium members can see the answers to a user’s question before they answer the question themselves. This allows you to see a potential matches’ preferences and answer accordingly.

If you want the added features of A-List Premium the price will go up:

1 month for $24.90/month

3 months for $22.90/month

6 months for $19.90/month

Incognito Mode

A new subscription-based feature offered by OkCupid is Incognito Mode that provides users with ultimate privacy. When in Incognito Mode, your profile will be invisible to anyone that you haven’t liked or sent messages to. Incognito Mode lets you browse OkCupid’s database freely without appearing online, and gives you the option to ‘block’ or ‘pass’ a profile you’re uninterested in.

Similar to A-List, Incognito Mode has three pricing tiers:

1 month for $4.99/month

3 months for $7.99/month

6 months for $4.99/month

Profile Boosts

For members interested in a profile boost without a monthly subscription, you can purchase individual boosts for $1.99. You can also buy them in packs of 5 for $1.89 each, or in packs of 10 for $1.69 each.

Public Perception (Other OkCupid Reviews)

Presently, the OkCupid Dating app ranks number 57 in social networking apps in the Apple App Store. And has a ranking of 4.2 stars with more 59 thousand reviews. On Google Play, the app rates as the number one Top Grossing Dating app at 4.1 stars. It has over 280 thousand reviews.

Users seem to agree that the service is easy to navigate. And has a lot to offer for little to no cost. Reviewers seem to like their unique questionnaire process, though some find some of the questions irrelevant to their partner search.

According to the Google Play store, OkCupid’s top features with users are its secure privacy controls and simplified profile management. Also, in-depth questionnaires, and location sharing services.

How Does OkCupid Compare to Other Dating Sites?

OkCupid is one of the top online dating services due to its low-cost memberships and simple design. While OkCupid offers a variety of features, there are other dating services such as eHarmony, Plenty of Fish, or Match.com that plenty to offer.

eHarmony is a dating service that focuses more on long-term relationships. Also, eHarmony’s registration process involves a variety of questionnaires that you need to fill out in order to find matches. While these questionnaires take time, they result in more qualified matches that will likely lead to better connections.

Plenty of Fish (POF) offers a similar free option. It allows you to search and interact with other singles looking to connect. While their profile customization is not quite as streamlined and inclusive as OkCupid, POF boasts one of the largest member databases with a total of over 150 million users worldwide.

Match.com is the oldest online dating service sites, making it a leader in the industry. With their tried-and-true methods, Match.com continues to provide their users with innovative features such as live chat rooms and international dating options.

Is OkCupid the Right Fit?

Whether it’s a hookup or a long-term relationship, OkCupid will help you make the connections you’ve been looking for. If you’re on the lookout for a sleek, easy-to-use dating site that allows you to meet singles wherever you go, OkCupid might be the solution for you.

Looking to have a lads weekend in Europe, but want to experience something different from endless nights of drinking and debauchery? Consider visiting Italy. On the surface, it might not seem like an ideal spot to visit with your mates, but dig a little deeper and find a whole range of activities to keep you occupied. Whether you want to go rafting at Marmore Falls and stay in one of the villas in Umbria with a private pool or head to the bigger cities, Italy makes a surprisingly good destination for a weekend away.

The Weather is Always Good

Visit in the summer and expect to be bathed in sunshine and balmy temperatures. Days often hover in the low 30s, and you’re almost guaranteed a sunny day. If you’re planning a getaway later in the year, head to Southern Italy where the weather remains warm and pleasant in the winter. It doesn’t matter what you want to get up to on your lads getaway, having good weather is always an advantage.

Watch a Game of Football

Ask anyone to name a football team from Italy, and most will give you an answer. Head to South America and Asia and find the youth sporting Italian football shirts and discussing AC Milan’s latest result. The country is a huge footballing nation with extremely passionate fans. Rather than watch the big game in the pub back at home, why not get a ticket and cheer on from the stands?

Italy is Easy to Reach

If you’re in Europe, you can fly to cities in Italy for next to nothing on one of the many budget airlines. Passengers can reach the country on a direct flight that takes less than two hours from most European destinations with ultra-cheap trips available from the UK, Ireland, Germany, and France. Some of you might want to spend a little bit longer than a weekend and have plans to visit other spots on the continent. No problem; hop online, and you’ll probably be able to get a last minute flight for less than a train ticket back at home.

Classy Nights Out

Italians are known for their style, elegance, and class. And pretty much every city and most towns have bars and lounges to suit the patrons. Rather than DJs and 20-something-year-olds drinking and vomiting all over the place, you can expect a higher level of sophistication when you hit the town. Not everyone wants to spend every second of their trip drinking as much as they can humanly hold.

Milan’s Nightclubs

But if you do want to hit the clubs and party the night away, you’ll find Milan to be a haven for exclusivity. The city is known for its fashion, and there’s a massive presence of the world’s rich and famous. Many of these will spend their nights in one of the hundreds of clubs in the city. Instead of being crammed inside a dark and crowded club like back at home, you might be rubbing shoulders with celebrities and football players.

A Night Out on Italian Beer

We’ve all had a bottle or Peroni or Birra Moretti at some point, and most of us enjoy drinking it. Italian beer might not be as famous as other nations, but they do offer an excellent selection of local brews. You can order a glass or bottle from the bar and unwind on a warm sunny evening. Or head to one of the growing numbers of bars selling craft beer. Anyone looking to enjoy a few will appreciate the selection that’s on offer.

Italian Food

While coming to Italy for the food can be a reason for anyone to visit the country, it deserves a special mention. Nothing can be better than a pizza straight out the oven with a bottle of Peroni. You don’t have to go out and pay for fine dining. Leave that for when you come back with your girlfriend or wife. Instead, head to the smaller spots along the streets that cook up fast meals at decent prices. And almost every place will have a fridge full of Italian beer.

Italy is a Perfect Destination for a Road Trip

Look at the map of Italy, and you’ll immediately understand why it makes an ideal place for a road trip. The country stretches for almost 1000 kilometers from the northern border with Switzerland to the southern tip of its ‘boot.’ Several towns and cities can be easily reached by driving or taking the train from one spot to the next. Or, if you’re looking for a real adventure, why not get your bikes out and cycle along the Eurovelo to Brindisi

Fight Like a Gladiator in Rome

And finally, one of the more unique experiences you can have in Italy is to take a gladiator class in Rome at the Colosseum. You can learn from a pro the different techniques and moves before giving a go for yourself. Nothing can compare to the fun most have when they spend a few hours learning to fight. Expect lots of laughs, adrenaline, and testosterone. If you’re planning your weekend away as part of a stag do, this will make the perfect activity.

Italy Makes a Great Spot for a Lad’s Weekend

Forget the candlelit dinners, strolling along Venice’s canals or visiting churches in Florence, come to Italy with your mates for the beer, adrenaline, and laughs. Not only will you have the time of your lives but you’ll also be able to have a getaway with a little less chaos than some of Europe’s others spots.

Americans love horses in a country that boasts a rich equestrian culture. The culture is gradually gaining international recognition as breeders have produced some of the best thoroughbreds that have become champions. Tourists who want to set their adrenaline flowing by indulging in sports that are more exciting than just engaging in the odd calculation of horseracing. Tourists can have a taste of horse riding on trips to these places that have earned the reputation of equestrian destinations of the US. They can even educate themselves about horse racing during the journey.

Louisville, Kentucky

Louisville, Kentucky is the torchbearer of the equestrian culture in the United States. The city is home to the famous Kentucky Derby, that had the privilege of having the Queen of England as a revered visitor. The Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing (AKA the Triple Crown), consisting of the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes titles, takes place at the track of Churchill Downs. The venue has also hosted the Breeder’s Cup eight times. Besides watching horses race in the stadium, visitors can peruse the nearby Kentucky Derby Museum to learn more about equestrian history. If you visit Churchill Downs at times other than Derby season, you can get a feel for things by watching simulcast racing that simulates the famous racing event.

Wellington, Florida

Florida has close connections to horses as it hosts some top-notch polo and equestrian events such as the Gold Cup, the US Cup, and the Whitney Cup. The Winter Equestrian Festival and the National Horse Show both take place in Florida that attracts nothing less than 250,000 equestrian enthusiasts who crowd the city every year. The climate of Florida is perfect for horse riding that takes place for seven months out of each year. The geographic location of Wellington is ideal for equestrian sports. If if you are a horse lover who wants to get a taste of top-class riding, Wellington is the place to be.

Woodside, California

The people of Woodside, California, especially the community closely attached to horses, have a long history of patronizing equestrian sports since 1800. Horseback riding is one of the favorite pastimes for the most affluent and prosperous, which makes sense as Woodside is the wealthiest small town in the United States. The community has been committed to nurturing and promoting equestrian sports by framing equine-friendly policies and connecting equestrian facilities and horse farms to each other by an elaborate riding trail system.

Aspen, Colorado

For those interested in riding through mountains and rough terrains, Aspen in Colorado is the place to visit. Aspen is well-known for its spectacular scenic beauty that you can enjoy while riding horses and coaxing your adventurous spirit. However, the remaining eight months provide an enjoyable climate, ideal for horse riding.

Make sure that you include these places when planning your equestrian tour itinerary.

Author Bio: Silvia Watson is a freelance content writer. She has written many good and informative articles on different categories. She is a featured author at various authoritative blogs and currently associated as a blogger with https://www.tvg.com/

“Don’t base your decisions on the advice of those who don’t have to deal with the results.”

~Anonymous

As much as you try to apply the logic that others and life throw at you when you are feeling low, nothing seems to work out. All the affirmations and the strategies aimed at bringing up oneself and motivating to feel better – they all fail. It is not always women who experience these emotions and feelings, men too have both ups and downs in life that takes them on a roller coaster ride of being low and excited in the various situations. In fact, women are the ones who know how to express their feelings, but the dudes find it quite tricky holding on too strong which results in feeling low.

Talking about advice, which definitely keeps coming in from all the ends but all aren’t as useful as they should be. It is peaceful within that can help someone come back to the surface with a bang.

“Be positive” is the new way to tell someone that everything will be okay and also to motivate them and cheer them up. The truth is – it doesn’t work! It never did, and it will never help anyone who is already preoccupied with other things and thoughts. It is more or less telling someone that you should feel better now because I have motivated you quite a lot. And it’s downright annoying and useless to be told it again.

Now the question is – if being positive isn’t the right advice when someone is feeling low, what should be done?

Don’t Talk About It Too Much

It is like reliving the stressful moment again and again when you talk about it to not one or two but some people. Talk about it to those who can actually provide a solution to the problem rather than listening, giving not-so-useful advice and spreading the word like wildfire among others. So, it is better to keep it to limited people who matter.

Choose Between Fight or Flight

When you/someone is in a bad mood and feeling really low, there are a thousand things constantly going in your head. From how to feel energetic to should I stay the same with the same mood, everything keeps on hitting your head making you more confused. Now you have to segregate the thoughts crawling in your head into – whether you want to fight or flight from the problem. The flight mode works just like your smartphone does. It blocks all the access to calls, messages, and ways for others to reach to you. It is a temporary method to run from the problems. Hence, fighting and overcoming is what you must look out for.

Accepting Reality and Letting Go of Things Out of Your Control

When you are in the flight mode, you know that someday, you will eventually settle down and start a family. It would be useless to stay aloof from others. You must let anything that comes to you come, but make sure you let go of the things that bring sadness in your life. In fact, you cannot stop the negativity to flow in but you always have the option to let go of things. Do that!!

Dress Well for Yourself

When you shop, things around you get brighter! You must have heard this before because this is entirely true. When you pay attention to yourself, pamper yourself with sleek, fashionable outfits, comfortable men’s underwear, complementing accessories, you feel good from within. You should indulge in this when skies turn gray for you.

Meditate

You cannot deny the benefits of meditation! Can you? Well, it is the most basic, fruitful and result-oriented method to make someone feel better. If you are struggling with something, try meditation and the different ways to do it right. The results will be fabulous.

Our eyes are rightly said to be the real windows to our souls. They are indeed vital to a healthy existence. Never take your eyes and any issues associated with your eyes lightly. You must religiously follow these simple tips for ensuring that your eyes are healthy even when you are in your old age.

Opt for a Comprehensive Dilated Eye Check-Up

Many of you simply ignore your eyes thinking that you have a perfect vision, but you should visit a professional eye care facility for a comprehensive dilated eye check-up. This would be the best way of ruling out any issues with your eyes. There are several common vision issues like, diabetic eye disease, age-associated macular degeneration, and glaucoma etc. that often go unnoticed as there are no warning signs. The best way of detecting these issues in their initial stages is by going through the dilated eye examination.

Find Out Eye Health History of Your Family

Find out from your other family members if there is any clinical history associated with their eyes. It is quite essential for everybody to know if anybody in the family had been suffering from any serious eye disease as many such issues could be hereditary. This would be really helpful in determining if you seem to be at a higher risk of getting an eye issue.

Eat Healthy Food for Eye Protection

Many of you know that eating carrots would be great for your eyes. However, the fact is, you must eat a nutritious diet that comprises lots of fresh vegetables and fruits, especially, leafy greens such as kale, spinach, or even collard greens. Your eyes would stay healthy and in perfect condition if you consume fish such as tuna, salmon, and halibut that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

Maintain Your Weight

Maintain ideal body weight as obesity could increase the risk of acquiring diabetes or some other serious systemic conditions like glaucoma and even diabetic eye disease that could result in vision loss. If it is increasingly getting difficult for you to attain and maintain an ideal weight, you must seek a doctor’s advice.

Keep Your Hands and Of Course Contact Lenses Scrupulously Clean

Always keep your hands scrupulously clean. Your contact lenses must be cleaned as frequently as possible. It can help avoid infections. Keep washing your hands and wash the contact lenses thoroughly. It is best to keep your contact lenses disinfected.

Practicing Safety at the Workplace Is Of Utmost Importance

You must work in a safe and germ-free environment. You must ensure that you are wearing protective eyewear if your job necessitates that for safety purposes. Moreover, do not ever be callous about your eye safety and protection. Wear protective gear and eyewear to provide ample protection to your eyes. Always remember your eyes are pretty precious to you and so you must take excellent care of them.

Life, as a man, isn’t easy.

Almost all books and resources on the Internet talk about the hardships of a woman, but people don’t talk about the difficulties that men face as they go through life. Whether it is about earning a livelihood or attracting women, things are never easy for men.

The good news is that there are a few things that can help men improve the quality of their life; and one of them is reading self-improvement books. Unfortunately, men often tend to become defensive about reading self-improvement books as they are too protective of their egos. But think again, your ego will take you nowhere; so it is best to accept the fact that no one is born perfect. You need to make yourself perfect.

Here is a list of 5 books that will help you get started towards the journey of self-improvement and become the man women dream of:

1. The Four Hour Work Week by Timothy Ferriss

This one is a must-read for youth that are on the verge of joining their dream jobs and dedicating their lifetime to work. Most of us immerse ourselves in our work to the extent that we forget we have a life of our own. There are things we are passionate about and there are people who need us. We become so engrossed in our work (even though we do not want to) that our job titles become our self-descriptions.

The Four Hour Work Week is a book that helps the youth identify their passion and spend less time doing things they don’t like. Doing so helps you focus things that make you happy.

Alert – It definitely does not talk about how you can earn millions of dollars within a week or month. It encourages you to live life to the fullest and make the most of your youth!

2. Whatcha Gonna Do with That Duck?: And Other Provocations by Seth Godin

In a blog post from Whatcha Gonna Do with That Duck, the author says, “We’re surrounded by people who are busy getting their ducks in a row, waiting for just the right moment. . . Getting your ducks in a row is a fine thing to do. But deciding what you are going to do with that duck is a far more important issue.” This book will be your friend, philosopher and guide and help you venture into the no-comfort zone. It is powerful enough to make you feel the onset of a new age where you can get rid of everything you dislike and own everything you like.

If you are really keen on self-improvement, make sure you read this book.

3. The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene

“When you show yourself to the world and display your talents, you naturally stir all kinds of resentment, envy, and other manifestations of insecurity… you cannot spend your life worrying about the petty feelings of others.” – Robert Greene

The 48 Laws of Power talks about power and how people misuse it for their own benefits. We often give in to powerful people and do everything they want us to do, even if we do not support it. This book teaches you to rise above all this and protect yourself from people who may try to belittle you using their power.

The 48 Laws of Power offers a number of life lessons and teaches you how to use power for good. If you think people have been trying to manipulate you and use your skills to their advantage, read this book to empower yourself.

Do you know why some people are more successful than others? It is because they understand what they want and they know how to achieve it. In ‘The 7 Habits of Highly effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change’, Covey talks about the seven habits that one must adopt to become effective in achieving the goals of life. The book makes an attempt to change our view towards the world and ourselves. However, doing so isn’t easy. You need to try really hard to make things happen the way you want.

If you read the book and apply the learning with true dedication, it can make a real difference to your life. If you have the urge to learn more, this is the perfect book for you. Read the book to empower yourself and the people around you!

Who does not want to be rich? But, being good is even more important. The unedited version of ‘Think and Grow Rich’ is a masterpiece by Napoleon Hill. It talks about becoming rich and other aspects of life such as thinking positive (about life and yourself), not getting flustered even when you do not have enough money, etc.

Try to read the unedited version as the edited one omits important and controversial information. Get the unedited version to understand the true meaning of, ‘Riches can’t always be measured in money!’

Conclusion

There are a number of books on self-improvement, but the above are some of the masterpieces that can change your life for good. Whether or not you are an avid reader, these books are a must-read. So, grab them and rediscover life in a way you never knew before.

It was just yesterday that I bought myself a pair of denim jeans and after a few washes it started to wear off and finally within a month, it came down to pieces. You might say that it was the fabric that was of bad quality but I wouldn’t put the entire blame on the fabric. It was my fault too because I couldn’t take care of it and it didn’t last long.

Likewise, most of us face day to day problems with our fashionable outfits and undergarments and find it extremely difficult to keep them longer with us. This article puts forward some time-saving, hassle-free and quick tips that can make men’s clothing look younger and durable.

1.Abstain from a lot of washing:

Like seriously? Not washing would keep my clothes stay longer? This can’t be true! If you’d take a closer look, you’d find that the number of times you wash the clothes, that number of times you put them with the harsh detergents. Detergents are made with harsh chemicals that directly affect the threads of the fabric and loosen them, which results in wear and tear. Whether it is your street fashion or your Gucci shirts or Gucci jacket, all the items will result in the same. So avoid washing them too often.

2.Check pockets before washing:

My mother always had this issue with us that we never checked out jeans pockets before putting the jeans in the washing machine. As a result, the mechanic was called to get it out and we got a scolding. Once, I forgot my set of Gucci watches in the pocket (it was brand new) and got it spoiled. In addition, these coins or anything that is left behind in the pockets causes constant rubbing against the fabric and tears the fabric faster. So, you must be careful before putting your clothes in for cleaning.

3.Get rid of the bobbles:

Bobbles look very ugly on the clothes. They can make your not so old sweaters or jackets look really old which you obviously don’t want. The saddest part is that once done, they keep coming back and more in number. Hence, you must buy a bobble remover comb for that smooth finish on all your winter wear outfits. Bobble removing combs can also be carried in your Gucci bags or briefcases when you go for a longer duration.

4.Fold and Hang theory:

You must have heard about the Big Bang Theory but have you heard about the Fold and Hang theory? You must have an idea of which clothes are supposed to be hanged while which are to be folded. Clothes with sharp edges like shirts, pants, shorts or t-shirts and even under clothing pieces are supposed to be folded whereas; articles like suits and any kind of winter wear are required to be hanged because the folded marks need to be prevented from the same.

5.Sunlight is important for some:

You might show all your clothes sunlight after washing them. Have you ever seen some colors fading? Well, it can either be because of the detergent or because of the sun rays. The darker clothes lose their color because of the sunlight and that’s why it would be a wiser decision to lay them flat in the shade to prevent fading.

With these tips, you can keep your favorite outfits longer with you without being rough or faded. You can now be careful while taking care of the outfits in order to keep them looking as good as new for a longer duration.